OCTA strike hinges on talks between leaders

The cooling-off period of negotiations between the Orange County Transportation Authority and the union representing bus drivers, mechanics and other employees ends at midnight tonight.

Teamsters Local 952, which represents 1,100 of the authority’s employees is locked in a wage dispute with the agency.

The authority has proposed a 13% increase in wages and benefits over a three-year span, agency spokesman Ted Nguyen said.

Union leaders say the proposal does not match projected cost-of-living standards in Orange County, said Patrick D. Kelley, the union’s secretary/treasurer. The Teamsters want a 14% pay raise.

Both sides talked Thursday and will continue discussions throughout today.

Union members will strike should an agreement fail to be reached by midnight today, Kelly said.

As a result, bus service will be significantly cut back and the agency will hire replacement workers, said Art Leahy, the authority’s chief executive.

— Yvonne Villarreal